Field serviceable display assembly

ABSTRACT

A first and second display assembly are moveably mounted to a frame. At least one of the display assemblies includes a cover, an electronic display located behind the cover, and a first and second channel. A fixed plate is attached to the frame and positioned entirely within a cavity located between the display assemblies and the frame. The cavity and the first channel are part of a closed loop pathway, while the second channel is part of an open loop pathway. The closed loop is sealed when the display assemblies are in a closed position, and the fixed plate is accessible when the display assemblies are in an open position.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/723,311 filed Oct. 3, 2017, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/491,106 filed Apr. 27, 2017and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/502,337 filed May 5,2017, the disclosures of each of which are hereby incorporated byreference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate generally toassemblies for electronic displays.

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Electronic displays have grown in popularity not only for indoor use,but also for outdoor use. One exemplary application, without limitation,is the digital out of home advertising market where the electronicdisplays are increasingly replacing the use of static posters. The useof electronic displays is advantageous because they allow images to bechanged quickly as well as permit the use of videos and interactivedisplays, among other benefits. Such displays have been placed in manylocations, including but not limited, on billboards, the tops ofvehicles, bus shelters, kiosks, sidewalks, stadiums, buildings, and thelike.

Such outdoor, and some indoor, displays are often encased in a housingto protect them from environmental conditions and to hold variouselectronic components that are used to operate the displays. Despiteefforts to protect the display from environmental conditions and otherpotential hazards, failures of the displays themselves and their relatedelectronic components do occur. When such failures occur, it is oftennecessary to repair, replace, or otherwise service (hereinafter alsocollectively, “servicing” or “service”) the displays themselves or theirvarious electronic components. Even when such failures have notoccurred, it may be desirable to access the displays or the variouselectronic components thereof to perform routine or preventativemaintenance, or simply for inspection purposes. It may also be desirableto provide a sealed, powered, connected, and/or cooled cavity forelectronic equipment. Finally, it may be desirable to change theconfiguration of the assembly. For example, without limitation, it maybe desirable to convert a double sided electronic display into anelectronic display on one side with a static poster display on theother. Current assemblies for electronic displays make it difficult orimpossible to service the display and the related electronic components.Therefore, what is needed is a field serviceable and replaceableassembly for an electronic display.

Further, such assemblies are generally connected to external powersources and communications networks. Such connections often requireinteraction with utility lines. Interaction with these utility linesgenerally subjects any servicing work to additional regulations andrequires technicians having specialized knowledge. Such effortsgenerally increase the costs, time, and effort involved with suchservicing. Therefore, what is needed is a field serviceable andreplaceable assembly for an electronic display.

The present invention is a field serviceable and replaceable assemblyfor an electronic display. A single display assembly or a back-to-backpair of display assemblies may be hingedly mounted to a frame. Morespecifically, the assembly may comprise a frame configured to receive,in a back to back configuration, one or more digital displays, one ormore covers, one or more poster holders (illuminated or notilluminated), or some combination thereof. A closed loop of circulatinggas and an open loop of ambient air may flow through the assembly. Theframe may be surrounded, at least in part, by a housing. In exemplaryembodiments utilizing back-to-back display assemblies, the frame and thedisplay assemblies may enclose an electronics cavity. Each displayassembly may be hingedly connected to an upper portion of the frame andmay be configured to swing outwardly to allow access to electroniccomponents located in an electronics cavity. The cavity may be sealed,cooled, powered, and/or connected for electronic equipment. Someelectronic components may be mounted to a plate located between the twodisplay assemblies. In other embodiments, the plate (along with theelectronic components) may be mounted to one of the display assembliesor may form a part of the respective display assembly.

In exemplary embodiments utilizing a single display assembly, thedisplay assembly may be similarly mounted. However, an access panel mayenclose the rear of the assembly such that the electronics cavity mayalso be accessed from the rear. The access panel may additionally beconfigured to receive a poster.

Regardless, a pair of aid devices may be utilized with each displayassembly or access panel to assist in moving the display assemblybetween the open and the closed position as well as secure the displayassembly in the open or closed position. In exemplary embodiments, anumber of the electronic components may be shared for both displayassemblies so as to reduce the total number of electronic componentsrequired. The aid devices may also assist in securing the displayassembly in the open or the closed position. The display assembliesand/or the access panel may be opened to service the electroniccomponents and the display assemblies. When necessary, the displayassembly itself may be removed from the frame and replaced.

The one or more digital displays, one or more covers, and one or moreposter holders may be mechanically attached to the frame by way of abracket and a pin, which may be configured to serve as the main, oronly, mechanical support for the one or more digital displays, one ormore covers, and one or more poster holders. In this way, the digitaldisplays, covers, or poster holders may be easily and quickly removedfrom the frame for servicing. In exemplary embodiments, external powerand communications connections may be located on the frame or on a platelocated between the one or more digital displays, one or more covers,one or more poster holders such that servicing of the one or moredigital displays, one or more covers, one or more poster holders can beperformed by disconnecting the power and communications at theconnection point rather than disturbing the connection to the utilitylines. In this way, the external power and communications connectionsmay often remain undisturbed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In addition to the features mentioned above, other aspects of thepresent invention will be readily apparent from the followingdescriptions of the drawings and exemplary embodiments, wherein likereference numerals across the several views refer to identical orequivalent features, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an exemplary assembly inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a front perspective of the assembly of FIG. 1 illustrated withthe stand removed to illustrate additional components of the assembly;

FIG. 3 is a front perspective of the assembly of FIG. 2 illustrated withone of the assemblies in the open position;

FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 2 illustratedwith one of the assemblies removed;

FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 4,illustrated with exemplary flow paths for circulating gas and ambientair;

FIG. 6 is a top sectional view of an exemplary display assemblyillustrated in isolation from other components to illustrate exemplaryflow paths for circulating gas and ambient air;

FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of another exemplary embodiment ofthe assembly also indicating section lines A-A and B-B;

FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 7 illustratedwith both display assemblies in the open position;

FIG. 9 is an exploded front perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a top sectional view taken along section line A-A of FIG. 7;

FIG. 11 is a side sectional view taken along section line B-B of FIG. 7;

FIG. 12A is a rear perspective view of another exemplary assembly;

FIG. 12B is a rear perspective view of another exemplary assembly;

FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of another exemplary assembly alsoindicating Detail A;

FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 13illustrated with one of the display assemblies in the open position;

FIG. 15 is a rear perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 13illustrated with both of the display assemblies in the open positionalso indicating Detail B;

FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 14illustrated with one of the display assemblies removed;

FIG. 17 is a detailed top perspective view of Detail A of FIG. 13;

FIG. 18A is a detailed perspective view of Detail B of FIG. 15 with thedisplay assembly in the closed position and illustrating an otherwisehidden strut; and

FIG. 18B is a detailed top perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 18Aillustrated with the display assembly in the open position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT(S)

Various embodiments of the present invention will now be described indetail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the followingdescription, specific details such as detailed configuration andcomponents are merely provided to assist the overall understanding ofthese embodiments of the present invention. Therefore, it should beapparent to those skilled in the art that various changes andmodifications of the embodiments described herein can be made withoutdeparting from the scope and spirit of the present invention. Inaddition, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions areomitted for clarity and conciseness.

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an exemplary assembly 10 inaccordance with the present invention. The assembly 10 may comprise oneor more display assemblies 14 placed within a housing 6. The housing 6may comprise a stand 8 for mounting the assembly 10 to the ground.However, in other exemplary embodiments, the assembly 10 may be mountedto another object such as, but not limited to, a bus shelter, a post, awall, a building, a roof rack for a vehicle, or the like. Regardless, anintake 16 may be located on the top of the housing 6. As will bedescribed in greater detail herein, an exhaust 9 may be located on thebottom of the housing 6. However, it is contemplated that the intake 16may be located on the bottom of the housing 6 with the exhaust 9 beinglocated on the top of the housing 6. Any other location for the intake16 and the exhaust 9 is contemplated. Regardless, the intake 16 maylikewise extend through the frame 12. Similarly, the exhaust 9 mayextend through the frame 12.

FIG. 2 is a front perspective of the assembly 10 of FIG. 1 illustratedwith the stand 6 removed to illustrate additional components of theassembly 10. The display assemblies 14 may be mounted to a frame 12. Theframe 12 may be substantially rectangular in shape and may have interiorand exterior surfaces or panels. The frame 12 may be configured toreceive a first and second display assembly 14 in a back to backarrangement. The display assemblies 14 may comprise digital displays,covers (i.e., access panels), poster holders (illuminated orunilluminated), some combination thereof, or the like. The posterholders may be configured to receive a static poster and may be back oredge illuminated. In exemplary embodiments, the covers and the posterholders may serve as access panels, though any of the foregoing may bemoved or removed to allow access to the interior of the assembly 10. Forexample, without limitation, the assembly 10 may comprise two electronicdisplays placed back-to-back, or a single electronic display placedback-to-back with a poster holder. Regardless, the frame 12 may beconfigured to be connected to the stand 8, another object, or directlyto the ground.

As will be explained in greater detail herein, the assembly 10 mayfurther comprise an electronics cavity 18 for storing electroniccomponents 30 for operating the assembly 10. The electronics cavity 18may be located in the space between the display assemblies 14 and theframe 12. Stated another way, the first and second display assemblies 14may share a common electronics cavity 18.

FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate the display assemblies 14 in a closed positionsuch that the display assemblies 14 are in contact with the frame 12 orare located substantially parallel to the ground. As will be explainedin greater detail herein, the display assemblies 14 may be hingedlymounted to the frame 12 by way of a hinging device 22. A first andsecond hinging device 22 may be located on either side of the frame 12so as to connect the first and second display assembly 14 to the frame12 in a hinged fashion. The first and second hinging devices 22 may bethe same or may be different. For example, without limitation, thehinging devices 22 used to hingedly mount a display assembly 14comprising a digital display may be the same or may be different fromthe hinging device 22 used to mount a display assembly comprising aposter holder. In exemplary embodiments, the hinging devices 22 may belocated on an upper portion of the frame 12, such that the displayassemblies 14 rotate outward along a substantially horizontal axis. Inother exemplary embodiments, the hinging devices 22 may be located alongan edge of the frame 12, such that the display assemblies 14 rotateoutward along a substantially vertical axis. Any location of the hingingdevices 22 is contemplated.

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the assembly 10 of FIG. 2illustrated with one of the display assemblies 14 in an open position.The display assembly 14 may rotate via the hinging device 22 into theopened position such that the bottom of the display assembly 14 is swungoutward and away from the frame 12. This may allow access to theelectronics cavity 18 such that personnel may service the electroniccomponents 30 located therein.

The assembly 10 may further comprise a pair of aid devices 20,preferably having a first end and a second end, though such is notrequired. In exemplary embodiments, the aid devices 20 may be gassprings, though any type of aid device is contemplated. Such aid devices20 may include, but are not limited to, any device which utilizes amechanical advantage in order to assist is moving the display assemblies14 between an open position or closed positions as well as, oralternatively, to temporarily secure the display assemblies 14 in theopen position or closed position. Other exemplary aid devices 20include, but are not limited to, struts, springs, block and tackle,counterweights, levers, gears, tethers, belts, chains, motors, screws,some combination thereof, or the like.

The first end of the aid devices 20 may be mounted to either side of thedisplay assembly 14 and the second end of the aid devices 20 may bemounted to either side of the interior of the frame 12. In exemplaryembodiments, the first end of the aid devices 20 is mounted lowerrelative to second end of the aid devices 20, though the opposite iscontemplated. The aid devices 20 may be configured to assist withmovement of the display assemblies 14 between the open and the closedpositions as well as temporarily securing the display assemblies 14 inthe opened or the closed positions.

In exemplary embodiments, the display assemblies 14 may be lockable tothe frame 12 or the housing 6 such that the display assemblies 14 cannotnormally be moved from the closed position unless unlocked. This mayassist in restricting access to the electronics cavity 18 to authorizedpersonnel.

FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of the assembly 10 of FIG. 2illustrated with one of the display assemblies 14 removed so as toillustrate the electronics cavity 18. A gasket 28 may extend around theperimeter of either or both sides of the frame 12. The gaskets 28 mayprovide a substantially air tight seal when the display assemblies 14are placed in the closed position. The gaskets 28 may ensure or assistin allowing the electronics cavity 18 to maintain a substantially airtight seal, though such is not required.

A plate 19 may be located in the electronics cavity 18 and theelectronic components 30 may be mounted thereto. Alternatively, or inaddition, an electronics plate 42 may be located in the electronicscavity 18. In exemplary embodiments, the electronics plate 42 may bemounted to the frame 12 such that the electronics plate 42 extendssubstantially parallel to the front surface of the electronic displayassemblies 14. Similarly, in exemplary embodiments the plate 19 may bemounted to the rear surface of one or more of the display assemblies 14.However, any location and orientation of the plate 19 and theelectronics plate 42 is contemplated.

The electronic components 30 may comprise any number of components usedto operate the assembly 10 and its various components. Such electroniccomponents 30 may include, but are not limited to, power sources, powerdistribution components, video players, video receiver boards,processors, electronic storage devices, communications equipment,wireless transmitter/receivers, network connectivity devices, printedcircuit boards, and the like. In exemplary embodiments, a number of theelectronic components 30 may be utilized to operate both displayassemblies 14. For example, but not to serve as a limitation, at leastthe video players, video receiver boards, communications equipment,wireless transmitter/receivers, and network connectivity devices may beshared. This may reduce the number of electronic components 30 required.In exemplary embodiments, the plate 19 or the electronics plate 42 maycomprise a server rack, though such is not required.

Each hinging device 22 may comprise a frame hinge plate 26 and a firstand second display hinge plate 24. The frame hinge plate 26 may belocated on the exterior panels on either side of an upper portion of theframe 12 such that the frame hinge plate 26 extends substantiallyperpendicular relative to the electronics plate 42. The display hingeplates 24 may be located on either side of an upper portion of each ofthe display assemblies 14 such that the display hinge plates 26 extendsubstantially perpendicular relative to the electronics plate 42. Thedisplay hinge plate 24 may comprise one or more notches or aperturescorresponding to notches or apertures located on the frame hinge plate26. Any number of fasteners 27 may extend through the correspondingnotches or apertures in the display hinge plate 24 and the frame hingeplate 26 such that the frame hinge plate 26 may be hingedly secured tothe display hinge plate 24. The fasteners 27 may include threadedfasteners, pins, bolts, screws, nails, or the like. This is merelyexemplary, any type of hinge device 22 is contemplated. In exemplaryembodiments, the frame hinge plates 26, the display hinge plates 24 andthe fasteners 27 may be configured to serve as the main or solemechanical attachment points for mounting the display assemblies 14 tothe frame 12.

The hinge device 22 may provide for easy removal of one or both of thedisplay assemblies 14 when servicing the assembly 10. The fasteners 27may simply be removed from either side of the display assembly 14 andthe entire display assembly 14 may be removed. Additionally, removal mayrequire relatively minor additional steps such as, but not limited to,the disconnection of various electrical wires and other components asfurther described herein. A replacement display assembly 14 may then beinstalled. Installation may comprise, but is not limited to, moving theAdditionally, installation of the new display assembly 14 may requirerelatively minor additional steps such as, but not limited to, theconnection of the aforementioned various electrical wires and othercomponents as further described herein. The display assembly 14 beingserviced may then be returned to a service center for servicing. Thismay minimize downtime of the assembly 10.

Additionally, the assembly 10 may require connection to an externalpower source, communications network, and the like to operate. This mayrequire connecting into utility lines. In exemplary embodiments,connection to said utility lines may be made through separate connectors72 located on the frame 12, within the cavity 18, on the plate 19, onthe electronics plate 42, or at another location. These connectors 72may be connected to the other various electronic components 30 viaelectrical wiring, ethernet cable, telephone cable, axial cable, fiberoptic cable, or the like. The disconnection and reconnection of suchwiring from the connectors 72 may be required when removing orinstalling a display assembly 14. In this way, the connection into theutility lines may not be disturbed when servicing the assembly 10. Inexemplary embodiments, the connectors 72 may also act as pass throughdevices 35.

FIG. 5 illustrates exemplary flow paths through the assembly 10 of FIG.4. FIG. 6 illustrates a top sectional view of an exemplary displayassembly 14 to further illustrate said exemplary flow paths. Eachdisplay assembly 14 may comprise a cover panel 17 that faces an intendedviewer. An electronic display 11 may be located behind, spaced apartfrom, and substantially parallel to the cover panel 17. Cover panel 17may be comprised of any substantially transparent or translucentmaterial and may be comprised of multiple layers. The electronic display11 may be any type of electronic display 11, including but not limitedto, a liquid crystal display (LCD), light emitting diode (LED) display,organic LED (OLED) display, plasma display, or the like. The spacebetween the rear surface of the cover panel 17 and the front surface ofthe electronic display 11 may define a first channel 25. A displayassembly housing 15 may surround the electronic display 11 such that thecombination of the cover panel 17 and the display assembly housing 15substantially encloses the electronic display 11. One or more of thedisplay assemblies 14 may further configured to receive touch input. Forexample, without limitation, the electronic display 11 may comprise acapacitive or resistive touch screen and related components required tooperate said touch screen, though any type of touch screen iscontemplated.

A backlight 21 may be located behind and substantially parallel to theelectronic display 11. The backlight 21 may be spaced apart from theelectronic display 11, though such is not required. A second channel 23may be located within the display assembly 14 and may be configured toreceive ambient air 38. The second channel 23 may permit ambient air 38to flow substantially vertically through the display assembly 14 fromtop to bottom, or from the bottom to the top. In exemplary embodiments,the second channel 23 is defined, at least in part, by the space betweenthe rear surface of the backlight 21 and the rear surface of the displayassembly housing 15, though any location is contemplated.

A first and a second side channel 32 may extend along either side of thedisplay assembly 14. The side channels 32 may be configured to receivecirculating gas 36. In exemplary embodiments, the side channels 32 aredefined, at least in part, by the space between the second channel 23and the side of the display assembly housing 15, though any location iscontemplated.

One or both sides of the frame 12 may comprise a side gap 13 locatedbetween interior and exterior side panels. As such, the assembly 10 maycomprise a first and a second side gap 13, where each is located oneither side of the frame 12. In other exemplary embodiments, theassembly 10 may comprise only a first side gap 13. Apertures may belocated along the interior panels of the side(s) of the frame 12 havingthe side gap(s) 13 such that circulating gas 36 may be passed from theelectronics cavity 12 into and out of the side gap(s) 13. In exemplaryembodiments, the circulating gas 36 may flow from the first side gap 13,though the first side channel 32, though the first channel 25, throughthe second side channel 32, through the second side gap 13, though theelectronics cavity 18, and be returned to the first side gap 13, therebyforming a closed loop. In exemplary embodiments where the assembly 10comprises only the first side gap 13, the circulating gas 36 may passdirectly from the electronics cavity 18 into or out of the first or thesecond side channel 32. Additionally, the circulating gas 36 may besplit and travel through first channel 25 located in each respectivedisplay assembly 14. Stated another way, the closed loop may passthrough each display assembly 14 and return to the cavity 18. It isnotable that the side gaps 13 are optional.

One or more fans 34 may be mounted to said apertures in the interiorpanels of the side of the frame 12 to force the circulating gas 36though the closed loop, though it is contemplated that any number offans 34 may be placed at any number of locations along the path of thecirculating gas 36.

The bottom and top of the frame 12 may similarly comprise interior andexterior panels with an upper gap 41 and a lower gap 40 locatedtherebetween, though such is not required. Apertures may be locatedalong the exterior panels of the bottom and top of the frame 12 suchthat ambient air 38 may be ingested from outside of the assembly 10 andexhausted from inside of the assembly 10. These apertures may form theexhaust 9 and the intake 16. In exemplary embodiments, ambient air 38may be ingested from the bottom of the assembly 10 into the lower gap40. The ambient air 38 may then travel vertically upwards through thesecond channel 23 in the display assembly 14 and into the upper gap 41.The ambient air 38 may then be exhausted through the intake 16, thusforming an open loop. In the exemplary embodiments, the ambient air 38may be split and travel through each of the second channels 23 locatedin each of the respective display assemblies 14.

One or more fans 34 may be mounted to said apertures in the exteriorpanels of the bottom of the frame 12 to force the ambient air 38 thoughthe open loop, though it is contemplated that any number of fans 34 maybe located in any number of locations along the path of the ambient air38.

In exemplary embodiments where the display assembly 14 is an electroincdisplay, the ambient air 38 flowing through the second channel 23 may bein thermal communication with the backlight 21 so as to absorb heatgenerated therefrom, though such is not required. In exemplaryembodiments where the display assembly 14 is an illuminated posterholder, the ambient air 38 flowing through the second channel 23 may bein thermal communication with the illumination devices so as to absorbheat generated therefrom, though such is not required. In still otherexemplary embodiments where the display assembly 14 is a cover, theambient air 38 may optionally flow through a second channel 23 locatedin the cover, though such is not required. Regardless, the ambient air38 flowing through the second channel 23 may be in thermal communicationwith circulating gas 36 flowing through the closed loop such that therelatively cool ambient air 38 may remove heat from the relatively warmcirculating gas 36. The ambient air 38 flowing through the open loop maybe in thermal communication with the circulating gas 32 flowing throughthe closed loop so as to absorb heat therefrom while not allowing theambient air 38 and the circulating gas 32 to substantially mix. Forexample, without limitation, the ambient air 28 traveling through thesecond channel 23 may be in thermal communication with the circulatinggas 38 flowing through the cavity 18.

It is notable that the use of airflow channels, such as but not limitedto, the first channel 25, the second channel 23, and the side channels32 may not be required in embodiments where the display assembly 14 is aposter holder or cover. In such embodiments, the airflow may be directedinto the remaining display assembly 14 comprising such airflow channels.If no such display assembly 14 is utilized, the airflow may simplycirculate within the cavity 18. In some exemplary embodiments, theposter holder or cover may still utilize some or all of aforementionedthe airflow channels. Regardless, the number of fans utilized may bereduced or increased to accommodate the number of airflow channels used.

FIG. 7 is a front perspective view similar to FIG. 1 of anotherexemplary embodiment of the assembly 10 also indicating section linesA-A and B-B.

FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of the assembly 10 of FIG. 7illustrated with both display assemblies 14 in the open position. Theplate 19 may be mounted to one of the display assemblies 14. In otherexemplary embodiments, the plate 19 may form a part of the displayassembly 14. Many or all of the electronic components 30 may still beshared by the display assemblies 14.

The shared electronic components 30 may be located on the plate, thoughsuch is not required. In exemplary embodiments, the display assemblies14 of the same type (e.g., electronic displays, poster holders, orcovers), including the electronic components 30 located on or in thedisplay assemblies 14, are substantially identical for the front or rearfacing display assembly 14 of the same type (e.g., when both displayassemblies 14 comprise electronic displays or both display assemblies 14comprise poster holders) such that the two may be interchanged. In thisway, a single type of display assembly 14 to be used to replace any ofthat type display assembly 14 or may be freely substituted with adifferent type display assembly 14. For example, without limitation, aseparate front and back display assembly 14 need not be stored as sparesfor a single assembly 10. Instead, a single spare display assembly 14may be used to replace either the front or back display assembly 14.This may reduce the need to store additional spare display assemblies14. Stated another way, a display assembly 14 comprising an electronicdisplay may be placed on either the front or the rear of the assembly.Likewise, a display assembly 14 comprising an electronic display may befreely substituted with a display assembly 14 comprising a cover.

FIG. 9 is a front perspective exploded view of the assembly of FIG. 8.An electronics plate 42 may be mounted to the frame 12, though such isnot required. The electronics plate 42 may be located in an upperportion of the electronics cavity 18, though any location iscontemplated. The electronics plate 42 may be mounted so as to extendsubstantially parallel with the front surface of the display assemblies14 when the display assemblies 14 are in the closed position. Theelectronics plate 42 may be configured to receive the electronicscomponents 30 and additional electronic components 44, which may bemounted thereto. In exemplary embodiments, the additional electroniccomponents 44 may comprise customer-specific or customer-installedelectronic components or other components for operating the assembly 10.However, any type of electronic components 44 and 30 are contemplated,such as but not limited to, computers, processors, routers, servers,machine to machine communications equipment, wireless connectivitydevices, Bluetooth connectivity devices, near field communicationdevices, cameras, electronic storage devices, memory, and the like. Inexemplary embodiments, the electronics plate 42 may comprise a serverrack, such as but not limited to, a 1U server rack.

By placing the display assemblies 14 in the opened position, theelectroincs cavity 18, the plate 19, the electronics plate 42, therelated electronic components 30 and additional electronic components 44may be serviced. Additionally, the display assemblies 14 themselves maybe serviced by removing the display assemblies from the hinging device22 as previously discussed.

Various pass through devices 35 may be located in the fame 12 or otherwalls defining the cavity 18 such that power lines, communication lines,and the like may be passed into the cavity 18 from outside. These passthrough devices 35 may be configured to provide a substantially air andwater tight seal, though such is not required. In other embodiments, thepass through devices 35 may provide a level of ingress and egressprotection. Any number and location of said pass through devices 35 arecontemplated. This may help to reduce the number of entry and exitpoints in the assembly 10 and simplify the cabling. The pass throughdevices 35 may provide a connection/disconnection point for wiring andcabling. The cavity 18 may provide a substantially sealed, cooled,connected, and/or powered electronics cavity 18 for mounting electroniccomponents, such as but not limited to, the additional electroniccomponents 44 and the electronic components 30.

FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary assembly 10 where the fans 24 for theambient air 38 may be located on the top of the frame 12 in theapertures of the upper gap 41.

FIG. 10 is a top sectional view taken along section line A-A of FIG. 7and illustrating exemplary display assemblies 14 in the closed position,where the display assemblies 14 comprise electronic displays. The secondchannel 23 may comprise a corrugation layer 46 located between thebacklight 21 and the electronics cavity 18. The ambient air 38 may passthrough the corrugation layer 46. As illustrated in FIG. 10, theassembly 10 may only comprise the first side gap 13. It is contemplatedthat the first side gap 13 may be located on either side of the assembly10 or may not be required at all. It is further contemplated that acorrugation layer 46 may be utilized in display assemblies 14 comprisinga poster holder or cover.

FIG. 11 is a side sectional view taken along section line B-B of FIG. 7.

As illustrated in FIG. 11, the lower gap 40 is optional. Instead,ambient air 38 may enter via the exhaust 9 and be ingested directly intothe display assemblies 14 where it may travel through the second channel23 to the upper gap 41 and exit via the intake 16.

FIG. 12A and FIG. 12B is a rear perspective view of another exemplaryassembly 10. FIGS. 12A-12B illustrates how the display assemblies 14 maybe rotated outward along a substantially horizontal axis or asubstantially vertical axis. The display assemblies 14 may act as anaccess panel. In exemplary embodiments where the display assemblies 14are covers, the display assembly 14 may be comprised of sheet metal,though any type of material is contemplated. In other exemplaryembodiments, where the display assembly 14 comprises a poster holderconfigured to hold a static poster, the display assembly 14 may comprisea transparent cover located above a plate to define a poster cavity,which may be configured hold the poster therebetween. Illuminationdevices may be placed within, around, or along the poster cavity toprovide backlighting or edge lighting to illuminate the poster.

In exemplary embodiments, the display assemblies 14 may swing openhorizontally (as shown in FIG. 12A) or vertically (as shown in FIG.12B). In exemplary embodiments where the display assembly 14 swings openvertically, aid devices 20 may likewise be used to assist in moving thedisplay assembly 14 between the open and closed positions as well assecuring the display assembly 14 in the open and closed positions.

Although the flow of the ambient air 38 and the circulating gas 36 maybe shown and described herein with respect to particular directions andorientations, it is contemplated that the ambient air 38 and thecirculating gas 36 may flow in other directions. For example, withoutlimitation, ambient air 38 and circulating gas 36 shown as flowingclockwise may flow counter-clockwise, when shown flowing vertically fromtop to bottom may flow from bottom to top, when shown flowinghorizontally from right to left may flow from left to right, when shownflowing vertically may flow horizontally, when shown flowinghorizontally may flow vertically, and the like.

It is contemplated that the assembly 10, or various components thereof,may be adapted for and/or used with any size display assemblies 14 inany application. For example, but not to serve as a limitation, theassembly 10, or various components thereof, may be adapted for and/orused with a vehicle topper unit such as is illustrated and described inU.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/450,365 filed Mar. 6, 2017, thedisclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in theirentirety.

FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of another exemplary assembly 100also indicating Detail A. FIG. 13 through FIG. 18B illustrate anddescribe an adaptation of the assembly 10 for use with a vehicle topperunit as previously mentioned. Similar features have been similarlynumbered but increased by 100 (e.g., assembly 10 and assembly 100). Theassembly 100 may comprise a frame 112 which may be rectangular in shape,though any shape is contemplated. The frame 112 may be covered bycladding that forms a housing. The cladding may provide an aestheticallypleasing appearance and may improve aerodynamics. The frame 112 may beadapted to be mounted to the roof of a vehicle, though such is notrequired. A first and second display assembly 114 may be attached to theframe 112, though any number of display assemblies 114 are contemplated.In exemplary embodiments, the first and second display assemblies 114are placed back-to-back on either side of the frame 112. The assembly100 may further comprise a pair of mounting devices 150. In exemplaryembodiments, the mounting devices 150 may be located on the underside ofthe frame 112 and may be feet configured to permit the assembly 100 tobe mounted to the roof of a vehicle, though any type of mounting device150 is contemplated.

A fan 134 may be located on an aperture in the frame 112 and may beconfigured to permit the ingestion of ambient air 138. Once ingested,the ambient air 138 may travel horizontally through channels in thedisplay assemblies 114 and exit through apertures on the other end ofthe frame 112. This may form an open loop. It is contemplated that thefan 134 may be located at any location along the path of the ambient air138.

FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of the assembly 100 of FIG. 13illustrated with one of the display assemblies 114 in the open position.The display assemblies 114 may be hingedly mounted to the frame 112 byway of a hinging device 122. The hinging device 122 may permit thedisplay assemblies 114 to be moved between a closed position, whereinthe respective display assembly 114 rests against or is located in closeproximity with the frame 112 and/or where the front surface of therespective display assembly 114 is substantially perpendicular to theground, and an open position wherein the respective display assembly 114is rotated outwardly from the frame 112 and/or at least one edge of thedisplay assembly 114 is moved away from the frame 112. A gasket 128 mayextend around the perimeter of the surfaces of the frame 112 whichcontact the display assemblies 114. The gaskets 128 may be configured toprovide a substantially air tight seal in the electronics cavity 118when the display assemblies 114 are located in the closed position.

An electronics cavity 118 may be located between the rear surfaces ofthe display assemblies 114. The electronics cavity 118 may comprise aplate 142 that is configured to receive a number of electroniccomponents 130 or additional electronic components 144 which may bemounted thereto. In exemplary embodiments, the plate 142 may be mountedto the frame 112. In other exemplary embodiments, the plate 142 may bemounted to, or form a part of, one of the display assemblies 114.Various pass through devices 135 may be located in the walls definingthe cavity 118 such that power lines, communication lines, and the likemay be passed into the cavity 118 from outside. The pass through devices135 may be configured to provide a substantially air and water tightseal or otherwise provide ingress and egress protection. This may helpto reduce the number of pass through points in the assembly 100 andsimplify the cabling. Additionally, the pass through devices 135 mayprovide a single or limited number of connection or disconnection pointsfor removing the wiring for servicing the display assemblies 114. Inexemplary embodiments, the electronics cavity 118 may provide a cooled,powered, connected, and/or sealed area for electronic components, suchas but not limited to, the electronic components 130 and the additionalelectronic components 144.

When either or both the of display assemblies 114 are placed in the openposition, the electronics cavity 118 may be exposed. This may allowaccess to the electronics cavity 118, the plate 142, and the electroniccomponents 130 such that personnel may service the electronic components130 located therein. In exemplary embodiments, the display assemblies114 may be selectively locked to the frame 112 such that the respectivedisplay assembly 114 cannot normally be moved from the closed positionunless unlocked. This may assist in restricting access to theelectronics cavity 118 to authorized personnel.

The frame 112 may comprise interior and exterior surfaces. In exemplaryembodiments, a lower gap 140 may be located in the space between theinterior and exterior surfaces of the frame 112 along a lower portionthereof. Stated another way, the lower gap 140 may be located betweenthe bottom of the electronics cavity 118 and the bottom of the frame112.

FIG. 15 is a rear perspective view of the assembly 100 of FIG. 13 isillustrated with both of the display assemblies 114 in the open positionand also indicating Detail B. A first and second strut 152 may extendbetween the frame 112 and each of the respective display assemblies 114.In other exemplary embodiments, a pair of struts 152 may be used foreach respective display assembly 114. The strut 152 may be configured totemporarily secure the respective display assembly 114 in the openedposition, although it is contemplated that the strut 152 may beconfigured to also temporarily secure the respective display assembly114 in the closed position. Alternatively, any of the aid devices 20 maybe utilized in conjunction with or in substitution of the struts 152.

In exemplary embodiments, the struts 152 may be mounted to each of therespective display assemblies 114 in a rotatable fashion. The struts 152may be mounted in a rotatable fashion by way of a pin, bearing, hinge,fastener, or the like, though any device or mounting configuration iscontemplated. Regardless, the struts 152 may be configured to betemporarily secured to each of the respective display assemblies 114such that the respective display assembly 114 is propped or otherwiseheld in the open position. While the struts 152 are discussed as beingmounted to each of the respective display assemblies 114 and temporarilysecured to the frame 112, it is contemplated that the struts 152 mayinstead be mounted to frame 112 and temporarily secured to each of therespective display assemblies 114.

FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of the assembly 100 of FIG. 14illustrated with one of the display assemblies 114 removed. Circulatinggas 136 may travel vertically through the electronics cavity 118 whereit is separated and passes through each respective display assembly 114.In exemplary embodiments, the circulating gas 136 flows through achannel between a cover glass an electronic display in each of therespective display assemblies 114. The circulating gas 136 may thentravel through the lower gap 140 and be returned to the electronicscavity 118 via apertures in the interior surfaces of the frame 112,thereby forming a closed loop. In exemplary embodiments, these aperturesin the frame 112 may have fans 134 mounted thereto to move thecirculating gas 136 through the closed loop, though it is contemplatedthat the fans 134 may be located anywhere along the path of thecirculating gas 136.

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/450,365 filed Mar. 6, 2017, thedisclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in theirentirety, describes an exemplary thermal management system for theassembly 100 including, but not limited to, open and closed looppathways for ambient air and circulating gas.

It is contemplated that either or both of the display assemblies 114 maycomprise an electronics display, a poster holder, or a cover. It isfurther contemplated that some or all of the electronic components 130used to operate the display assemblies 114 may be located on the plate142. It is also contemplated that the display assemblies 114 of the sametype (e.g., comprising an electronic display, poster holder, or cover)may be substantially identical, such that the display assemblies 114located on the left or right side of the assembly 100 may be freelysubstituted.

FIG. 17 is a detailed top perspective view of Detail A of FIG. 13. Thehinging device 122 may comprise a first and second display hinge plate156, a first frame hinge plate 154, and a second frame hinge plate 158.Each of the first and second display hinge plates 156 may besubstantially “L” shaped and may be configured to extend between a rearsurface of the respective display assemblies 114 and the first framehinge plate 154. The first frame hinge plate 154 may be mounted toeither end of the frame 112. Optionally, a second frame hinge plate 158may be located on the other side of the first and second display hingeplates 156 such that the first and second display hinge plates 156 aresandwiched between the first frame hinge plate 154 and the second framehinge plate 158. It is contemplated that the second display hinge plate156 may not be required, but may be used to provide added strength andstability. Additionally, the second hinge plate 158 may be configured toextend behind a portion of the display assemblies 114 so as to serve asa backstop.

A first fastener 127 may extend through the first frame hinge plate 154,the first display hinge plate 156, and the second frame hinge plate 158.Likewise, a second fastener 127 may extend through the first frame hingeplate 154, the second display hinge plate 156, and the second framehinge plate 158. The fastener 127 may be a pin or another devicepermitting rotational movement of the first and second display hingeplates 156. In exemplary embodiments, the second frame hinge plate 158may be selectively secured to the respective display assembly 114 suchthat the respective display assembly 114 may be temporarily secured inthe closed position. The frame hinge plate 156, the display hinge plate154, and the fasteners 127 may be configured to bear all orsubstantially all of the weight of the respective display assembly 114.

The design of the hinge device 122 may provide for easy removal of oneor both of the display assemblies 114 when servicing the assembly 100.The fasteners 127 may be removed from either side of the respectivelydisplay assembly 114 and the entire display assembly 114 may be removed.Additionally, the disconnection of wiring, along with other steps, maybe required. A replacement display assembly 114 may then be installed.Additionally, the connection of wiring, along with other steps, may berequired. The display assembly 114 being serviced may then be returnedto a service center for servicing. This may minimize downtime of theassembly 100.

FIG. 18A is a detailed perspective view of Detail B of FIG. 15 alsoillustrating the otherwise hidden strut 152. FIG. 18B is a topperspective view of the assembly 100 of FIG. 18A illustrated with thedisplay assembly 114 in the open position. As can be seen, the strut 152may be moved between a supporting and a stored position. The strut 152may rotated into the stored position such that the strut 152 issubstantially aligned with the display assembly 114 when the displayassembly 114 in the closed position. In this way, the strut 152 is nolonger bearing the weight of the display assembly 114 and may be storedwithin the respective display assembly 114 when the strut 152 is notbeing used to keep the display assembly 114 in the open position. Thestrut 152 may be rotated into the supporting position where the strut152 is secured at an angle to the frame 112 such that the displayassembly 114 may be propped or otherwise held in the open position. Inexemplary embodiments, the strut 152 may comprise a notch 153 configuredto be temporarily secured to a corresponding bracket or groove locatedon the frame 112 such that the strut 152 bears some or all of the weightof the display assembly 114 so as to prop or hold the respective displayassembly 114 in the open position.

Any embodiment of the present invention may include any of the optionalor preferred features of the other embodiments of the present invention.The exemplary embodiments herein disclosed are not intended to beexhaustive or to unnecessarily limit the scope of the invention. Theexemplary embodiments were chosen and described in order to explain theprinciples of the present invention so that others skilled in the artmay practice the invention. Having shown and described exemplaryembodiments of the present invention, those skilled in the art willrealize that many variations and modifications may be made to thedescribed invention. Many of those variations and modifications willprovide the same result and fall within the spirit of the claimedinvention. It is the intention, therefore, to limit the invention onlyas indicated by the scope of the claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An electronic display assembly comprising: aframe; a first and second display assembly mounted to the frame, atleast one of said first and second display assemblies comprising: acover; an electronic display located behind the cover; a first channelconfigured to receive circulating gas; and a second channel configuredto receive ambient air; a cavity located between rear surfaces of thefirst and second display assemblies and within the frame; a fixed plateattached to said frame and positioned entirely within the cavity,wherein said fixed plate is spaced apart from the rear surfaces of saidfirst and second display assemblies, and wherein said fixed plate isconfigured to receive electronic components; a closed loop pathwaycomprising said cavity and said first channel; and an open loop pathwaycomprising said second channel; wherein said first and second displayassemblies are mounted to said frame in a manner which permits movementbetween a closed position where said closed loop pathway is sealed andan opened position where said fixed plate is accessible.
 2. Theelectronic display assembly of claim 1 wherein: the first channel islocated between the cover and the electronic display.
 3. The electronicdisplay assembly of claim 1 wherein: the second channel is locatedbehind the electronic display.
 4. The electronic display assembly ofclaim 1 wherein: the electronic display comprises a layer of liquidcrystals.
 5. The electronic display assembly of claim 1 wherein: theelectronic display is directly backlit.
 6. The electronic displayassembly of claim 1 wherein: the electronic display is edge lit.
 7. Theelectronic display assembly of claim 1 wherein: the frame is configuredfor mounting to a sidewalk.
 8. The electronic display assembly of claim1 wherein: the frame is configured for mounting to the roof of avehicle.
 9. The electronic display assembly of claim 1 wherein: at leastone of the first and second display assemblies is configured toaccommodate a static poster.
 10. The electronic display assembly ofclaim 1 wherein: at least one of the first and second display assembliesis configured to accommodate an access panel.
 11. The electronic displayassembly of claim 1 further comprising: an open loop fan located alongsaid open loop pathway and configured to move ambient air through atleast a portion of said open loop pathway when operated; and a closedloop fan located along said closed loop pathway and configured to movecirculating gas through at least a portion of said closed loop pathwaywhen operated.
 12. The electronic display assembly of claim 1 wherein:said fixed plate comprises a server rack.
 13. The electronic displayassembly of claim 1 further comprising: a number of pass through deviceslocated on the frame and configured to accommodate cabling extendingfrom outside the cavity to a location within the cavity.
 14. Theelectronic display assembly of claim 1 wherein: said first and seconddisplay assemblies are moveably mounted to the frame in a manner whichpermits rotation of said first and second display assemblies about afirst and second vertical axis, respectively.
 15. The electronic displayassembly of claim 1 wherein: said first and second display assembliesare moveably mounted to the frame in a manner which permits rotation ofsaid first and second display assemblies about a first and secondhorizontal axis, respectively.
 16. The electronic display assembly ofclaim 1 wherein: said first and second display assemblies are mounted tothe frame in a back to back arrangement with one another.
 17. A methodfor providing an electronic display assembly, said method comprising thesteps of: securing a fixed plate to a frame; mounting a first and asecond display assembly to the frame such that the fixed plate islocated between rear surfaces of said first and second displayassemblies, wherein at least one of said first and second displayassemblies comprise: a cover; an electronic display located behind thecover; a first channel configured to receive circulating gas; and asecond channel configured to receive ambient air; moving circulating gasthrough a closed loop pathway comprising the first channel and a cavitylocated between the rear surfaces of the first and second displayassemblies, an upper edge, a lower edge, and side edges of the frame;moving ambient air through an open loop pathway comprising the secondchannel; and moving at least one of said first and second displayassemblies between a closed position where said closed loop pathway issealed, and an opened position where said fixed plate is accessible,wherein said fixed plate is located entirely within said cavity.
 18. Themethod of claim 17 further comprising the steps of: mounting at leastone electronic component to said fixed plate; and removing said at leastone electronic component from said fixed plate.
 19. The method of claim17 further comprising the steps of: removing at least one of said firstand second display assemblies; and replacing the removed one of firstand second display assemblies with a replacement display assembly. 20.An electronic display assembly comprising: a frame having an upper edge,a lower edge, and side edges; a first and second display assemblymounted to the frame in a back to back arrangement, each of said firstand second display assemblies comprising: a cover layer; an electronicdisplay located behind the cover layer; a first channel located betweena front surface of the electronic display and a rear surface of thecover layer, wherein said first channel is configured to receivecirculating gas; and a second channel located behind a rear surface ofthe electronic display, wherein said second channel is configured toreceive ambient air; a cavity located between a rear surface of thefirst display assembly, a rear surface of the second display assembly,the upper edge, the lower edge, the side edges of the frame; a fixedplate affixed to said frame and positioned entirely within the cavity,wherein said fixed plate is spaced apart from the rear surfaces of saidfirst and second display assemblies, and wherein said fixed plate isconfigured to receive electronic components for operating saidelectronic display assembly; a closed loop pathway comprising saidcavity and said first channel; and an open loop pathway comprising saidsecond channel; wherein said first and second display assemblies aremoveably mounted to said frame; wherein said closed loop pathway issealed when said first and second display assemblies are located in aclosed position; and wherein said fixed plate is accessible when saidfirst and second display assemblies are located in an open position. 21.An electronic display assembly comprising: a mounting structure; a firstand second side assembly, wherein at least one of said first and secondside assemblies comprise: a cover; an electronic display locatedrearward of the cover; a first channel configured to receive circulatinggas; and a second channel configured to receive ambient air; an interiorcompartment located between rear surfaces of the first and seconddisplay assemblies and within the mounting structure; a plate connectedto said mounting structure in a fixed manner and positioned entirelywithin the interior compartment, wherein said plate is spaced apart fromthe rear surfaces of said first and second display assemblies and isconfigured to receive electronic components; a closed loop pathwaycomprising said interior compartment and said first channel; and an openloop pathway comprising said second channel; wherein said first andsecond display assemblies are mounted to said frame in a manner whichpermits movement between a closed position where said closed looppathway forms a continuous pathway and an opened position where saidclosed loop pathway is interrupted to expose said plate.